Ebs-230 User Manual - Ebs Ink-Jet Usa

EBS-230
USER'S MANUAL
INDUSTRIAL INK-JET PRINTER
EBS-230
USER’S MANUAL
VERSION: 20080512#1.0
EBS Ink-Jet Systeme GmbH

Alte Ziegelei 19-25, D-51588 Nümbrecht
+49 (0)2293 / 939-0
Fax +49 (0)2293 / 939-3
http://www.ebs-inkjet.de
EBS-230 Printer User's Manual
© 2008 EBS Ink-Jet Systeme GmbH, D-51588 Nümbrecht
2 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
These instructions apply to EBS-230 printers with the control program version 1.5.134. In order
to check the version of your program view the About menu.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................. 6

1.1. APPLICATION .....................................................................................................................6
1.2. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ..................................................................................................7
1.3. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION............................................................................................7
1.4. CONFORMITY MARKING ......................................................................................................7
2. INSTALLING THE PRINTER................................................................................ 8
2.1. SAFETY AND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................8
2.2. POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS .........................................................................................9
Power Supply ......................................................................................................... 9
2.3. INSTALLING THE PRINTER ...................................................................................................9
2.3.1. Standard and Optional Elements of the Printer ..........................................................9
2.3.2. Preparatory Steps ........................................................................................................10
2.3.3. Connections..................................................................................................................12
Connecting the printer to the ink system .............................................................. 13
Electrical and Interface Connections.................................................................... 13
2.4. SWITCHING THE PRINTER ON/OFF .....................................................................................15
2.5. PRINTER COMMUNICATION WITH CONTROLLER – PC OR T200 TERMINAL .....................15
Line Connection to Computer............................................................................... 15
Line Connection to T200 Terminal (optional).................................................. 16
3. OPERATING THE PRINTER.............................................................................. 17
3.1. OPERATION PANEL ...........................................................................................................17
3.2. QUICK START: PRINTING A READY-TO-USE TEXT FROM THE PRINTER MEMORY ...................18
3.3. OPERATING THE PRINTER WITH CONTROL PROGRAM .........................................................18
3.3.1. User Interface for Printer Control Program ...............................................................18
3.3.2. Setting up Initial Connection for Printer Control Program on Computer...............19
3.3.3. Saving Text Files and Parameters in the Printer Memory........................................19
3.3.4. Checking Printer Parameters......................................................................................20
3.3.5. Creating and Editing Texts..........................................................................................20
Using and Changing Built-in Fonts of the Printer ................................................. 21
Using and Changing Windows® Fonts................................................................. 22
Cutting and Pasting Text Using Windows® Clipboard ......................................... 23
Changing Proportional Spacing and Monospacing .............................................. 23
Print Preview ........................................................................................................ 24
3.3.6. Creating and Editing Texts Containing Variable Fields ...........................................25
Date and Time ...................................................................................................... 25
Universal Date and Time ...................................................................................... 26
Object Counters.................................................................................................... 28
3.3.7. Graphics Editor ............................................................................................................30
3.3.8. Using a few Special Registers in a Text.....................................................................30
3.3.9. Print Parameters...........................................................................................................31
Number of Nozzles ............................................................................................... 32
Text Height ........................................................................................................... 33
Character Resolution............................................................................................ 34
Intensity of Ink Drops............................................................................................ 34
Mode of Timing..................................................................................................... 35
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Object Travel Speed............................................................................................. 35
Inverting and Reversing a Text ............................................................................ 36
Repeating a Text (Repetition) .............................................................................. 37
Print Delay ............................................................................................................ 37
Distance between Texts ....................................................................................... 38
Row Repetition ..................................................................................................... 38
Buffering Texts while Printing ............................................................................... 39
Refreshing Variable Fields for Repetitions ........................................................... 39
3.3.10. Other Printer Parameters.............................................................................................40
Auto Start.............................................................................................................. 40
Operation of Photo-detector ................................................................................. 40
Triggering (Initiating) Printing ............................................................................... 41
Stopping Printing .................................................................................................. 42
Changing Ink Colour............................................................................................. 42
Ink Pressure ......................................................................................................... 43
3.3.11. Using a Number of Texts .............................................................................................43
Creating a Text Library in the Printer ................................................................... 43
Quick Saving/Retrieving Text Files to/from the Text Library ................................ 44
Printing Text Files from the Library ...................................................................... 44
Saving the Project Library on a Computer Disc ................................................... 44
3.4. OPERATING THE PRINTER WITH T200 TERMINAL ..........................................................45
3.5. REPLACING A BOTTLE OF INK ...........................................................................................45
3.5.1. General Information .....................................................................................................45
3.5.2. Installing a New Bottle of Ink (or Replacing the Empty One) ..................................47
4. SERVICING THE PRINTER ............................................................................... 48
4.1. ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................48
4.1.1. Changing the ink filter in the bottle............................................................................49
4.1.2. Replacing the air filter in the printer ..........................................................................49
4.2. REMOVING AIR FROM THE INK SYSTEM ..............................................................................50
4.3. WHEN PROBLEMS ARISE WHILE OPERATING OR SERVICING THE PRINTER ..........................50
4.3.1. No labels are printed after the print command has been accepted........................50
4.3.2. Choked nozzles in the print head ...............................................................................50
4.3.3. Some dots are much smaller than others or missing on the print .........................52
Adjusting Valve Electromagnets in the Print Head............................................... 52
4.3.4. Prints are distorted ......................................................................................................54
4.3.5. Prints look as if printed in bold type and blur...........................................................55
4.3.6. Prints are slanted .........................................................................................................56
4.3.7. Lower (upper) parts of prints are distorted ...............................................................56
4.3.8. Prints are crooked, wavy and jagged.........................................................................57
4.3.9. Removing the Housing (Cover) from the Printer ......................................................57
4.4. HOW TO CONTACT YOUR SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE .........................................................57
4.4.1. Generating a Service Report.......................................................................................58
5. STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION ............................................................... 59
5.1. STORING THE PRINTER .....................................................................................................59
5.2. TRANSPORTING THE PRINTER ...........................................................................................60
6. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................ 61
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Dear Users of EBS Ink-Jet Systems equipment,

Please read this manual necessarily in order to get full information about the
operation of your device.
Disclaimer:
• We shall bear no responsibility for damage to the device if it is operated improperly, i.e.,
inconsistently with this manual.
• As we wish to keep pace with permanently progressing technological development and individual
requirements of our clients, we need to reserve the right to change the form, make and technical
solutions of our devices. Therefore no data, illustrations or descriptions of this manual shall form
any grounds for claims.
• We spare no effort to ensure that this manual is reliable, includes all modifications and is free
from errors. However, the drawing up and publication process is complex and an error can occur
in spite of our endeavours and wishes. We shall bear no responsibility for the consequences of
editorial and printing errors in this manual.
If your device contains a particular piece of equipment or needs performing an operation that have not
been illustrated or described in this manual, or if you have queries on reading this manual, please
contact any EBS Ink-Jet Systems agent for additional information.
20080512#1.0 _______________________________________________________ 5
1. General Information
NOTE:
There are warning and information signs on the right or left hand-side margins of some pages to
attract the user’s attention to messages that are provided next to them. They are the following signs:
Information signs indicating:

! • that the actions described therein should be taken carefully,
• additional, printer-specific option and features, which are not described anywhere else,
• untypical behaviour of the unit,
• other hints.
A warning not to take the action that might have a critical impact on the proper
! operation of the unit. It requires the user to follow closely instructions given therein.
1.1. Application
EBS-230 is a family of inexpensive and easy to operate industrial INK JET printers that are
designed for labelling in a non-contact way, various objects moving on a factory conveyor. The printer
provides clear and firm labels on such materials as:
• paper and cardboard,
• (porous) plastics,
• fabric,
• leather and leather-like products,
• wood and wood-like products,
• (porous) ceramic products,
• metal surfaces of any type, etc.
The printer is characterized by the following qualities:
´ Small size with a printer independent from the device controller. Therefore the printer can be
installed directly in front of object to be printed on, often in difficult to reach places.
´ It is not necessary to connect the printer to the controller (a computer or T200 terminal).
´ It can be fixed in any position.
´ It can be equipped with a 7 or 16-nozzle print head.
´ It can print with coloured and surface-specific inks, with one ink type to be used for a given
printer.
´ It can print variable data such as the current date, the end of the guarantee period (service life,
period of storage, etc.) of the object labelled, time, numbering in ascending or descending orders
(counters).
´ The text to be printed and printing parameters can easily be entered and changed with connection
to a selected PC computer with Windows® operating system (see Minimum Recommended
Hardware Requirements on 61 page) or optionally with a T200 terminal. Connection to PC or
T200 terminal is via a cable – see chapter 2.5 Printer Communication with Controller – PC
or T200 Terminal.
´ Labelled objects are recognized by a photo-detector.
´ When a speed indicator (a rotation and pulse converter) is attached, prints can be produced on
objects moving at a varying speed.
´ The printer’s operation is fully automated, so are status indications and call-for-service messages.
´ Bottles of ink are fully controlled and only bottles applicable for compatible EBS printer types are
accepted.
´ The printer can be used uninterruptedly for 24 hours a day.
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1.2. Principle of Operation
Every label consists of a number of droplet-wide vertical rows. Within the print head, nozzles are
positioned vertically at regular intervals in order to print labels of the maximum height. Each nozzle is
equipped with an electromagnet-controlled valve. Labels are made by jetting ink droplets at pressure
when the valves open. Pressure is generated in the printer through the use of a built-in
microcompressor. Objects to be labelled move in front of the printer while vertical rows are printed
one by one until the entire label is complete.
Electromagnet to
control the valve Surge chamber
Valve 1
Valve 2
Nozzle
Valve n
Supply of ink to the

chamber at high pressure Fig. 1.2.1
1.3. Environmental Protection
The EBS-230 printing system is not subject to Directive 2002/96/EC of the European
Parliament and of the Council on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
However, following the European Community’s generally accepted policy on environmental
protection, we recommend that after the EBS-230 printing system has been put out of
service, it should be separated from municipal waste and processed in an environmentally
friendly way according to the applicable local regulations.
1.4. Conformity Marking
The EBS-230 printing system has been subjected to conformity assessment procedure which
resulted in the issue of Declaration of Conformity. This forms the basis for the statement that the
EBS-230 printer and the manufacturer’s accessories to which this Declaration also relates are in
compliance with the requirements of the following European Community Directives:
2006/95/EEC, 89/336/EEC, 91/263/EEC, 92/31/EEC, 93/68/EEC
and that they meet the following norms that are harmonised with the above Directives
EN 61000-6-2:2001, EN 61000-6-4:2001, EN 60950-1:2001
if the printer and the accessories are installed and used following the manufacturer’s instructions.
On this basis, the following marking has been placed on the EBS-230 printer and R230 cable
distributor since 2007:
20080512#1.0 _______________________________________________________ 7
2. Installing the Printer
2.1. Safety and Installation Requirements
All efforts have been put into designing this printer carefully and making it safe and reliable. However,
the safe operation of the device is conditioned by the user’s awareness of, and obedience to the
following safety rules and precautions.
The unit should be operated by the staff that has been trained. It is recommended that the
operation of the printer is supervised.
! 1. A fire extinguisher designed to extinguish electrical equipment and flammable solvent fires
must be placed within easy reach of the unit.
2. The unit must not be operated in rooms where an explosion hazard exists.
3. No overprints can be made on products whose temperature exceeds 100°C at the time of
printing.
4. No open fire or spark producing devices are allowed in the area where the unit operates.
5. The outlet of the head must not be directed towards persons, animals or random objects
during printing in order to avoid splashing anybody or anything with ink.
6. All activities related to the washing and cleaning of the print heads, ink-system, changing of ink
bottle or any other elements of the system must be performed in protective clothing. Take
care to avoid contact with ink. It is especially important to protect the eyes when performing
these activities. Protective eye-wear is recommended.
7. Complete washing and cleaning of dirty print heads and other elements must be performed
while the device is switched off. Synthetic containers should not be used as they generate
static electricity. Metal containers are recommended.
8. No ink, solvent or wash-up (or waste fluid remaining after the head has been washed) should
be left in open vessels as these inflammable fluids may ignite from accidental sources of fire.
9. Dangerous mains voltage is applied to the R230 cable distributor, therefore care should
be taken to perform manipulations in the system cabling after power supply has been
switched off. Remove the outlet plug of the distributor from the outlet socket before you
open the distributor casing.
WARNING:
! Static electricity collected by people (on their plastic clothes or in their hair, for example) may spark-
over to ink or wash-up vessels when they have been left open. The ink and wash-up are
inflammable and may ignite! Therefore, before you approach the open vessels containing
inflammable fluids, discharge static electricity by touching the metal object that is connected to earth
(for example, to metal parts of the factory conveyor).
In case of accident…
´ When ink or solvent spill, the spilled fluid should be wiped out with a piece of absorbent material
! and then removed in compliance with fire and health and safety at work (HSE) regulations.
´ If the clothing has been splashed, remove it as soon as possible.
8 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
´ Should the eyes or skin get irritated:
EYES rinse the eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes, then see your oculist,
SKIN wash the skin with water and soap.
2.2. Power Supply Requirements
Power Supply
The R230 cable distributor has a power pack with the following parameters:
Power supply (power pack integrated with IN: 100-240 V~, 50-60 Hz / 0,66-0,34 A
R230 cable distributor) OUT: 24V , max. 1A
0.58A for 7-nozzle printer,

Maximum power consumption
0.91A for 16-nozzle printer.
NOTE:
• Take care while connecting a computer to the printing system (see section 2.5). Perform !
the following operations to ensure safe connection:
a) Before connecting the R230 distributor cable to the computer disconnect power
supply from the printer with the distributor power-switch and wait a few seconds.
b) Connect the cable marked as PC/TERM to the computer and secure the male connector
against slipping out with attached lock screws.
c) Switch on power supply of the printer with the distributor power-switch.
ABSOLUTE EQUIPOTENTIALITY (equal potentials) OF THE PRINTER HOUSING AND THE
COMPUTER TO BE CONNECTED TO THE PRINTER is the prerequisite for safe connection
and proper operation (communication). Ideally, the metal printer housing should be connected
to earth at the same point where the outlet socket (neutral) to which the computer is
connected is. The efficiency of earthing should meet the requirements of the applicable
standards. The objective is to eliminate damage to electronic ports of the computer and printer
while connecting or disconnecting an interface cable to or from them.
• The printer and the computer must not be plugged into sockets of different ground
potentials.
• If the power network does not meet standard requirements, appropriate line-interference filters
or special interference-free connectors should be installed. This applies in particular to the
systems to/from which high loads, especially lagging ones, are connected/disconnected.
2.3. Installing the Printer
2.3.1. Standard and Optional Elements of the Printer

Some elements may not be part of a typical delivery or other elements which are not specified below
may be included, depending on your order.
The following elements are delivered most frequently as part of a typical system:
• EBS-230 printer ............................................................................................................ 1 unit
• Ink system with IMS module.................................................................................................. 1 unit
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• R230 cable distributor ...................................................................................................... 1 unit

• USB adapter ...........................................................................................................................1 unit
• Photo-detector ........................................................................................................................1 unit
• Printer mounting, tube mounting and clamps.........................................................................1 unit
• CD with utility software, operating instructions and user-support files (instructions,
advice, help in electronic form) ............................................................................................ 1 disc
Printer Photo-detector
with a cable
Printer holder
A bottle of ink
R230 cable
distributor
Ink bottle carrier
Ink Monitoring
System (IMS) USB
with cable adapter
Fig. 2.3.1.1. Elements of the EBS-230 Printing System.
Other elements to be delivered with the order as part of the system or separately:
• A shaft-encoder, an indicator of the conveyor travel speed.
• T200 terminal with printer service program in place of PC computer.
• A movable platform with a cable for making prints manually.
2.3.2. Preparatory Steps

When switching on device for work the first time, or after transport, install it according to the
requirements below. For this purpose, perform the following activities:
1. Remove all elements of system from the packaging.
2. Choose a location for printer installation free of vibration, shock, dust, smoke and dirt as well as
intense or inflammable vapours and gases.
! NOTE: The following mechanical and environmental conditions should be met:
Environmental conditions: operating temperature from +5°C to +40°C,
relative humidity up to 95% without condensation.
Mechanical conditions: max. vibration of 1g at the maximum frequency of 10Hz,
max. shocks of 1g over the maximum of 2 ms.
3. Fix printer mounting in location where objects are to be printed.
! NOTE: If the conveyor vibrates too much, fix print mounting on stable stand or wall, not in
contact with the conveyor.
10 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
4. Fix printer to horizontal or vertical mounting depending on needs.

5. Fix photo-detector to grip attached to printer mounting or to other place appropriate to the object
to be labelled.
6. Mount the distance holder on the main side of printer, in the opening, and on the side from which
the object to be labelled will move.
objects to be
labelled move in
this direction
hole to install a
distance holder
distance holder
photo-detector grip
photo-detector
Fig. 2.3.2.1. Fixing elements of printer to standard mounting
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2.3.3. Connections
All electrical and pneumatic connections are situated on the back side of the printer.
printer with the print head

photo-detector
a tube to pressure-feed ink

from a bottle to the print head
tube suppling
pressure to ink bottle
bottle plug print head

connector cable
bottle of ink
interface cable to IMS

carrier to hold
a bottle of ink
photo-detector
connector cable
interface cable to PC or
T200 connector terminal
shaft-encoder
connection socket
network power supply cable
Ink Monitoring System (IMS)
PC
to USB port
on computer T200 terminal (option)
USB adapter
Fig. 2.3.3.1. Connecting the EBS-230 printer at its workplace.
12 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Connecting the printer to the ink system

The ink system for the printer is built of the following components (see Fig. 2.3.3.1):
• A carrier to hold a bottle of ink and grips to fix the carrier up.
• An Ink Monitoring System (IMS in short).
• Pressure pipes of polyethylene for supplying ink and compressed air.
• A bottle of ink (with the capacity of 1 litre – the use of higher capacity bottles may result in
microcompressor malfunction).
• A cap to be screwed onto the bottle; it contains:
- a tube with an ink filter at one end,
- tube adaptors,
- retaining nuts to secure the tubes on the adaptors.
To connect the ink system to the printer perform the following activities:
a). Screw polyethylene tube into the cap of ink bottle.
b). Secure the tube to the cap to prevent dislodging by screwing down the blue plug.
c). Connect the tube projecting vertically from the non-return valve of the ink bottle cap by screwing
into the input connector (marked INK) on the printer.
d). Connect the polyethylene tube projecting horizontally from the bottle cap and connect the tube to
the output compressor valve of the printer (marked AIR OUT) while securing it against dislodging
by screwing in the blue plug.
ink input connector
non-return valve
tube connector
air outlet connector
tube to supply ink from bottle tube to supply compressed

to head under pressure air from head to bottle Fig. 2.3.3.2
Electrical and Interface Connections

Read notes given in section Power Supply in order to get familiar with safety requirements - see
frame NOTE on page 9. !
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 13
cable distributor
connector
ink inlet connector air compressor output connector
pins to fix PC/TERM

connector
print head
connector cable
ink monitoring system

(IMS) connector cable
photo-detector
connector cable
interface cable to PC or
T200 connector terminal
power
shaft-encoder
switch
connection socket
power supply cable
Fig. 2.3.3.3. Connection sockets on the printer’s operation panel as well as R230 cable
distributor connector cable.
14 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
2.4. Switching the Printer On/Off
Switching the printer on/off can be only be done by switching on/off the power switch located on the
R230 cable distributor housing – see Fig. 2.3.3.3. If the printer has been switched on properly, the
POWER lamp emits green light continuously.
On switching the power supply off, protect the print head by following the steps specified below:
• open the drain valve which is next to the ink bottle cap. Thanks to that the ink pressure drops to
!
zero. Then close the drain valve to protect ink solvent from evaporating,
• rinse the plate and the nozzles with solvent.
2.5. Printer Communication with Controller – PC or T200

Terminal
A PC (stationary or portable ) with Windows® 98SE / ME / NT / 2000 / XP / Vista®, or T200

terminal is vital to controlling the EBS-230 printer and the program servicing the EBS-230
printer – (see Minimum Recommended Hardware Requirements on page 61). With the help of
these devices you may send texts for printing to the printer, save or read the printing parameters, print
configurations and initiate or halt the printing process, etc. The EBS-230 communicates with
computer or T200 via a cable.
Line Connection to Computer
The printer is generally connected to the computer via the R230 cable distributor (marked
PC/TERM) which links to the computer through a USB adapter to a USB port (or optionally through a
RS-232 adapter to a serial port). The adapter requires installation of controllers, therefore during the
first start-up, the controller initialisation program disc must be inserted into the disc drive. The
installation disc is not required for further connections. Installation of a controller adapter must
precede installation of the printer control program.
Read notes given in section Power Supply in order to get familiar with safety requirements - see
frame NOTE on page 9. !
PC
USB port
USB adapter
Fig. 2.5.1. Connecting the computer using cable method.
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Line Connection to T200 Terminal (optional)
Optionally, where connecting the printer to a computer is impossible or problematic, the T200
terminal may be used. Detailed information on the T200 terminal may be found in a separate
document T200 TERMINAL User's manual.
Fig. 2.5.2. Connecting the T200 terminal using cable method.
16 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
3. Operating the Printer
3.1. Operation Panel
LED display showing text LED indicating print-parameter

number prepared for printing or other errors in the printer
LED indicating
whether the printer is
power-supplied
properly and what the Printer on/off
validation status of a and rinse button
new bottle of ink is
text number LED indicating

selection keys the print status
Fig. 3.1.1. Elements of printer panel.
The operation of the PRINT ON/OFF button:

• When the button is pressed shortly, the printer is triggered between the stop state and print
state. The print state is indicated by light emitted by the PRINT lamp. With use of the controller
program you can configure the finishing of the printing assignment by pressing the PRINT
ON/OFF – see chapter Stopping Printing.
• When the button is pressed and held down for some time, the rinsing of the print head of the
printer starts. All nozzles open at the same time in order to increase the flow rate. The function of
rinsing is used to remove obstacles, if any, from slightly choked nozzles or to rinse the print head
with wash-up.
If the ERROR lamp lights up after the PRINT ON/OFF button has been pressed, this is an indication !
that print parameters stored in the printer memory are incorrect and cannot be used to print a text. In
order to clear the error, load all print parameters and a text to be printed to the printer memory from
the computer with the use of EBS-230 printer control program or with the T200 terminal.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 17
3.2. Quick start: Printing a Ready-to-use Text from the Printer

Memory
If the printer is delivered with text and parameters for printing loaded into the memory – controller
devices (computer or T200 terminal) are not necessary. In order to start printing, follow the steps
given below:
1. Install the printer – see chapter 2 Installing the Printer.
2. Attach a photo-detector and shaft-encoder, if needed.
3. Unseal a new bottle of ink, screw it into the bottle cap and place it in the carrier resting the bottom
on the IMS module.
4. Switch the printer on, wait about 10 seconds until the bottle of ink is validated and then press the
PRINT ON/OFF button.
5. Make objects to be labelled travel in front of the printer.
If the text to be printed and print parameters are to be modified, use a PC and EBS-230 printer
control program or the T200 terminal.
3.3. Operating the Printer with Control Program
3.3.1. User Interface for Printer Control Program

Below there are the control program window and panels as they look like soon after the program has
been started.
Text edit window
Control Program MENU tool bar
Transmission and error

status window Printer communication window
Parameter tab window Variable field and text library window
Fig. 3.3.1.1. Main window of the control program.
18 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
3.3.2. Setting up Initial Connection for Printer Control Program on

Computer
1. The first step in setting up the connection of the program to the printer is establishing the printer
connection via a computer port. The serial port on the computer to which the printer is connected
(Com ports enumerating) is indicated in the Tools menu, the Preferences submenu, via the
Autodetect option, as standard. In such a case the program detects the port list automatically.
Another option is to assign the COM port list to be searched by the program. For example, if you
select item 2 from the drop-down list, then the program searches ports COM1 and COM2, but if
you select item 5, then ports 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are searched, etc.
Fig. 3.3.2.1
2. Check for proper communication between the computer and the printer by clicking the
or in the printer control program. If the serial port number is wrong or the
printer is improperly connected to the computer, then an attempt to establish communication
results in transmission errors – see Fig. 3.3.2.2.
Fig. 3.3.2.2
3. If the serial port number is chosen properly and the printer is properly connected to the computer,
the message O.K. is displayed after the communication has been established.
3.3.3. Saving Text Files and Parameters in the Printer Memory

A text to be printed, print parameters and other printer parameters are stored in the printer memory.
The EBS-230 printer is equipped with three types of memory:
1. A non-volatile programmable read-only-memory, which retains data even when the printer is
switched off. It stores a text, print parameters and configuration of the printer. Data is saved in
the memory by clicking the button (which is available after the Adv. options box has
been ticked) on the communication panel of the control program window. Data are transferred
from the volatile working memory – see further below - to the non-volatile read only memory.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 19
2. A non-volatile clock memory, which retains data when the printer is switched off as it is battery
supported. It stores data generated by real-time clock and can store values of some variable
fields such as non-volatile counters.
3. A volatile working memory, which loses data stored in it when the printer is switched off. It is used
by the printer to fetch data to be printed on an ongoing basis. Each time the printer is switched on,
data are transferred from the non-volatile read-only memory to the volatile working memory. The
function enables the user to start printing a text that has previously been stored in the non-volatile
memory without the need for a computer.
If a text or print parameters are modified while the printer is on, always download the modified
data to the printer before printing starts. In order to transfer data to the volatile working memory
click the button on the communication panel of the control program. If the data is also
to be used when the printer is switched on again at a later time, it needs to be saved in the non-
volatile read-only memory by clicking the button (which is available after the Adv.
options box has been ticked).
3.3.4. Checking Printer Parameters

The printer parameters are checked for correct settings automatically. In the event improper
parameter settings are made, the Wrong parameters! message appears.
If you want to check the cause of the
error, send the parameters to the
printer by pressing the key,

or use the Check parameters function
available in the Tools menu. An
explanatory message is displayed in
the Info tab sheet.
Fig. 3.3.4.1
The parameters can then be transferred to the printer volatile memory by clicking the
button and then to the non-volatile read-only memory by clicking the button (which is
available after the Adv. options box has been ticked), if they should be retained after the printer has
been switched off. See also section 3.3.3 Saving Text Files and Parameters in the Printer
Memory.
3.3.5. Creating and Editing Texts

Texts are written in the text edit window. To write a text, place the cursor in the edition line and enter
the text characters with the computer keyboard.
Standard text editing is done with the mouse and keyboard, as with other Windows® applications:
¡ to move the cursor horizontally to the right,
¢ to move the cursor horizontally to the left,
Y¡ to move the cursor horizontally to the right and highlight the text,
Y¢ to move the cursor horizontally to the left and highlight the text,
Delete
to delete one character to the right of the cursor,
BackSpace to delete one character to the left of the cursor,
Home
to move the cursor to the beginning of the text,
End
to move the cursor to the end of the text.
20 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
sample position of the cursor change font
maximum text
height Hmax [pix]
Hmax
text edit line
character
insertion mode
total length of text printer font type at the current cursor position
cursor position in the text MENU button (corresponds to the right mouse button)
Fig. 3.3.5.1. Text edit window – entering characters
Using and Changing Built-in Fonts of the Printer

The program uses built-in fonts as standard. In order to change the font type and size at any point of
the text, follow the steps below:
1. Position the cursor in the text edit line exactly where another font is to be inserted.
2. Holding the cursor on the text edit line, press the right mouse button (or the MENU button) and
select Font from the menu displayed. Then select the font type you need from the list displayed,
e.g. Latin 16x10. You can also do that using the pull-down list called Font on the tool bar of the
text edit window (see figure Fig. 3.3.1.1). The printer fonts are at the top of the list and marked
with the symbol .
3. Move the cursor to another position and insert another font-change marker.
If only one font-change marker has been inserted, all characters from the marker position to the
end of the text are displayed (printed) with the use of the replaced font.
Fig. 3.3.5.2
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 21
Fig. 3.3.5.3.
A font-change marker is stored in the text as a non-printing code and it increases the length of the text
Delete
by one. In order to delete a marker, place the cursor in front of it and press the key or
alternatively place the cursor behind it and press the BackSpace key - see the indicator of the cursor
position within the text. If a font-change marker is deleted, then characters following the deleted
marker have the same attributes as the text in front of the deleted marker had.
! NOTE: To change the font to a font with more vertical pixels (amount of dots) you need to adjust
(increase) the setting of the Number of nozzles parameter.
Using and Changing Windows® Fonts
You can also use Windows® fonts to create texts in your printer.
1. Move to the Font list and replace build-in font with one of fonts installed in your Windows®. You
can change the font Size and the keyboard "language" in Windows®. While increasing the text
height do not exceed Hmax [pix] line because otherwise the excessive top part of the text will be
cut off.
change Windows® keyboard language
other parameters of Windows® fonts
change the font change the
the line indicating font size
the maximum print height Hmax [pix]
character insertion mode

excessive-font-size indicator
for Windows® fonts
if you use Windows® fonts type in
characters in this widow Fig. 3.3.5.4.
2. Move the cursor to the position where you want to start a text and type in the text. You can
change the font at any time.
3. There are three character insertion modes you can use:
Single character, mode 1, Single character, mode 2, Multi character. Each of them matches
Windows® font characters with the capabilities of your printer in a different way according to the
font type, language and character insertion mode (the Right to left editing parameter).
22 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Single character, mode 1 – the text is centred between the text edit
lines.
Single character, mode 2 – all characters are aligned to the lower

text edit line.
Multi character – is used to enter the characters whose appearance

varies depending on whether single characters or character groups
(words), such as Arabic characters, are used.
NOTE: The number of characters to be input with the use of the Windows fonts is limited – it
depends on the font type and size.
!
Cutting and Pasting Text Using Windows® Clipboard

A text fragment can be marked e.g. for copying.
copy a text to the clipboard (Ctrl+C)
cut and copy a text to the clipboard (Ctrl+X)
paste a text from the clipboard (Ctrl+V)
highlighted part of the text length as well as positions of the beginning and
end characters of the selected part of the text Fig. 3.3.5.5.
The highlighted text can be copied to the Windows® clipboard by clicking the button (the shortcut
of Ctrl+C) or cut out and copied to the clipboard by clicking the button (the shortcut of Ctrl+X).
The text stored in the Windows® clipboard can be pasted back onto the text edit line by clicking the
button (the shortcut of Ctrl+V). The method can be used for moving texts from other Windows®
applications to the text edit line in the control-program window and then to the printer (you can change
the font of the text pasted, however the new font needs to be one of the printer built-in fonts only).
NOTE: If variable fields are defined within a text and the text is copied to the Windows clipboard
and then pasted back, the information on the definition is lost. In other words, variable field
!
markers are not copied. However, monospaced text and font change markers can be
copied and pasted.
Changing Proportional Spacing and Monospacing

Proportional fonts are used to insert texts as standard. This means that each letter takes a space
proportional to the character width. For example, a letter W takes more space than a letter I.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 23
The spacing between proportional (monospaced) characters is set with the Character spacing
(Selective char. spacing) parameter from Parameters 2. The view of a sample text after the spacing
between characters has been changed is shown in the picture below:
beginning-of- end-of-monospaced-
monospaced-text marker F1 F2 text marker Fig. 3.3.5.6.
Fig. 3.3.5.7.
When monospaced fonts are used, the character width does not depend on the character. In other
words, each character has the same width. The beginning of a monospaced piece of text is marked
with the F1 key and the end of a monospaced piece of text is marked with the F2 key from your
computer keyboard. The part of the text marked as monospaced is placed between red markers, for
TEXT
example . If the beginning marker only is placed, all characters following the marker till the
end of the text are monospaced. A number of monospaced groups of characters can be inserted into
one text.
The beginning-of-monospaced-text marker (or the end-of-monospaced-text marker ) is stored in

the text as a non-printing code and it increases the length of the text by one. In order to delete a
Delete
marker, place the cursor in front of it and press the key or alternatively place the cursor behind it
and press the BackSpace key - see the indicator of the cursor position within the text. If the marker
(or ) is deleted, then characters following the deleted marker have the same attributes as the text in
front of the deleted marker had.
Print Preview
On creating a text to be printed with the use of variable fields you can check for proper operation of
the counters using the print preview option.
Use the key to preview a print and initiate variable fields.
The key is used to preview successive prints; it is available after the key has been pressed
once.
24 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
preview a print
preview other prints
Fig. 3.3.5.8.
Fig. 3.3.5.9.
3.3.6. Creating and Editing Texts Containing Variable Fields

Variable fields are a specific type of subtext, whose contents are updated each time a label is printed.
The contents of variable fields are impacted by such events as a change of date, a change of time, an
activation of the photo-detector or other.
NOTE: Only the printer built-in fonts can be used to print variable fields; no Windows® fonts can
be used.
!
Date and Time

In order to synchronize the date and time of your printer with those of your computer move to the Date
tab and click the and keys successively.
Fig. 3.3.6.1.
You can set a different date or time in your printer by setting them in the Date tab and transferring to
the printer with the key.

In order to insert the date (time) field that is updated automatically, follow the steps below:
1. In the text edit line position the cursor in the place where you want the date (time) to be displayed.
2. While holding the cursor on the text edit line press the right mouse button (or the MENU button)
and select the command Define variable field from the menu displayed. Then select Insert date
(Insert time) in the list displayed. You can also do that using the ( ) key on the tool bar of
text edit window.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 25
Fig. 3.3.6.2.
Fig. 3.3.6.3.
3. You can insert a font-change marker on the left or right of the date (time) field.
4. You can change separators inside the date (time) field by replacing the existing separators
with different characters. You can also remove proportional-text markers.
Fig. 3.3.6.4.
5. You can also change other date parameters. Double click the date in the variable field list.
You can change the date shift (e.g. by 2 days) in the window displayed.
Universal Date and Time

Various elements of the current date and time can be printed on every object with the use of the
special register Univ. date and time.
Below, there is a list of characters with which date and time items are coded. Individual elements of
the universal-date-and-time field can be preceded, separated or followed by any characters that are
different from those specified below or by a space.
D tens of day in the current date,
A units of day in the current date,
26 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
M tens of month in the current date,
O units of month in the current date,
R thousands of year in the current date,
L hundreds of year in the current date,
Y tens of year in the current date,
E units of year in the current date,
B tens of hour in the current time in the 24-hour system,
C units of hour in the current time in the 24-hour system,
I tens of minute in the current time,
J units of minute in the current time,
T tens of second in the current time,
U units of second in the current time,
P hundreds of day number in the year
Q tens of day number in the year
S units of day number in the year
N number of day in the week
The following encoding system is used as standard: 1-Sunday, 2-Monday, 3-Tuesday, ... , 7-
Saturday).
The numbering of weekdays can be changed in the following way: on checking the time on your
computer (by clicking the key) or on your printer (by clicking the key)
change the number-of-weekday parameter in the Day of week box for the date displayed.
For example, Monday, 21st April 2008 is encoded as the second day of the week as standard. But if
you set 1 in the Day of week box and save the modified parameters (of time, date and day of week)
to the printer (with the key), then the following encoding applies: 1-Monday, 2-Tueday,
... , 7-Sunday. And if you set 5 in the Day of week box and save the setting to the printer, then the
following encoding applies: 1-Thursday, 2-Friday, 3-Saturday, 4-Sunday, 5-Monday, 6-Tuesday, 7-
Wednesday.
Creating the universal-date-and-time field.

1. Type in a text to be printed in the text-edit window.
Fig. 3.3.6.5.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 27
2. In the text edit line type in characters with which date and time elements are coded – see above.
Some elements can be replaced with a text (digits). For example, the first and second digits of the
number of the current year can be typed as 20 or coded as RL.
3. Select the characters of the field with the mouse. While holding the cursor on the text edit line
press the right mouse button (or the MENU button) and select the command Define variable
field in the menu displayed. Then select Univ. date and time in the list displayed. The same
operation can be performed with the menu shortcut Shift+F12.
Fig. 3.3.6.6.
4. On selecting the print preview option (see Print Preview) you can see what the print will look like
on 25-04-2008 at 11:08:01 hours or later.
Fig. 3.3.6.7.
! NOTES:
If a greater number of special registers is used, the following notation helps the user get hang of
types of registers and options:
• The range of the register is limited with arrows whose colour depends on the type of
register.
− the incremental counter is indicated with blue arrows ,
− the decremental counter is indicated with green arrows ,
− the universal-date-and-time field is indicated with turquoise-coloured arrows ,
• If the mouse cursor is placed in the text-edit window within the filed area, the colour of the field in
the variable field list changes from black to red.
• If the field is a non-volatile one (and is displayed in blue), the placing of the mouse cursor within
the field area changes the colour of the register in the list from blue to pink.
Object Counters
You can print a consecutive number of print on every object being labelled or at a specified interval on
long objects with the use of incremental or decremental counters.
In order to insert the field of an incremental (decremental) counter to be updated automatically follow
the steps below:
1. In the text edit line, position the cursor in the place where you want the counter to be displayed.
Insert a font-change or other markers, if required.
2. Type in the setting for the counter: the maximum required number of digits, e.g. zeros, if the
counter is to start counting from zero. If counting is to start from a specific number, type in the
number and add leading zeros to fill in all counter positions.
28 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Fig. 3.3.6.8.
3. Highlight the counter setting with the mouse.
Fig. 3.3.6.9.
4. While holding the cursor on the text edit line press the right mouse button (or the MENU button)
and select the command Define variable field in the menu displayed. Then select Up counter
(Down counter) in the list displayed. The same operation can be performed with the menu
shortcut Shift+F1 (Shift+F2).
Fig. 3.3.6.10.
5. The operation described at points 2, 3 and 4 can be performed by pressing the ( ) key on
the tool bar (a 4-digit counter is inserted and you can adjust its length accordingly).
6. You can change other parameters of the counter. Double-click the counter in the variable field list.
You can change the increment or select the Auto save parameter of the counter.
NOTE: The counter can be volatile or non-volatile. The contents of a volatile counter are lost after
the printer has been switched off. With a non-volatile counter the counting can be resumed
!
from its last setting after the printer has been switched on again.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 29
Counter operation is timed by the photo-detector as standard, and each time the photo-detector is
activated, the setting of the incremental (decremental) counter is increased (decreased). The only
exception is when a text is to be printed iteratively, that is when the print parameter Text
repetitions>1 or is set to Continuous. In such a case the photo-detector does not time every print
but a group of prints. The Refresh var.fields parameter from the Parameters 3 tab decides whether
every successive repetitive print modifies the contents of the counters or not – see section
Refreshing Variable Fields for Repetitions. The distance between the beginnings of two
consecutive prints produced with repetitive printing is defined with the Rep. distance parameter from
the Parameters 2 tab.
3.3.7. Graphics Editor

The graphics (bitmap) editor enables a user to create and edit drawings which can then be inserted
into texts to be printed.
The graphics editor can be called up with the key on the toolbar (see Fig. 3.3.1.1).
To exit bitmap editor and go to text editor, with
no drawing being saved
To select draw mode

To delete drawing
being edited
To insert bitmap into
text file being edited Fig. 3.3.7.1
The window where graphics can be created/edited consists of dots and enables a user to generate
graphics with a maximum height of 16 dots and length of 60 dots.
3.3.8. Using a few Special Registers in a Text

A number of special registers can be created in a text. The registers can be of the same type, for
example, incremental counters only, or of various types.
How to create several variable fields – incremental counter, decremental counter, universal date as a
date and universal date as a time:
1. In the text edit window, type in a text to be printed remembering to enter the appropriate character
groups to the specific fields.
2. Create variable fields and set parameters (proportional or monospacing, volatile or non-volatile)
for them. If all fields are defined properly, the following control-program window is displayed:
30 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Fig. 3.3.8.1.
3. Check the operation of the variable fields with the print-preview function by clicking the button.
The print preview window shows what the text will look like after printing. If the text to be printed
has been defined as above, the printing of the following texts starts on 21.04.2008 at 12:10 hours
following 5 successive pulses (simulated with the button) from the photo-detector.
Fig. 3.3.8.2.
3.3.9. Print Parameters

The EBS-230 printer is a versatile machine specifically designed to print complex text in a non-
contact way on objects of a variety of shapes and dimensions. The objects can be moved in front of
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 31
the printer automatically on a factory conveyor or manually, at a speed varying widely in range, in any
(left or right) direction and in their normal position or up-side down. The way of printing and
appearance of prints can be successfully customized with a set of modifiable print parameters such as
character width, boldface, number of repetitions and many others.
The following parameters can be modified:

Number of Nozzles, Repeating a Text (Repetition),
Text Height, Print Delay,
Character Resolution, Distance between Text,
Intensity of Ink Drops, Row Repetition,
Mode of Timing, Buffering Texts while Printing,
Object Travel Speed Refreshing Variable Fields for Repetitions,
Inverting and Reversing a Text,
The printer performs its operation of printing with the use of so called current parameters. Unlike
parameters stored in the non-volatile memory (see section 3.3.3 Saving Text Files and Parameters
in the Printer Memory), the current parameters have direct impact on the text printed and are stored
in the printer volatile memory.
The current parameters (hereinafter referred to as the parameters) can be modified in the following
way:
• Every time the printer is switched on, the current parameters are set with settings stored in the
non-volatile read-only memory.
• All parameters available in tab sheets on the parameter-block panel of the control program can be
modified. Before the printing starts, the modified parameters need to be transferred to the printer
by clicking the button. Print parameters stored in the non-volatile read-only memory
remain unmodified. If the current parameters are modified and replaced in the printer, the
parameters stored in the non-volatile read-only memory can always be restored by switching the
printer off and then on.
Number of Nozzles
This parameter defines the maximum number of print head nozzles, which simultaneously determines
the maximum height, or the number of dots, of a text to be printed - Hmax [pix]. Depending on this
quantity, the program allows the use of the full or a limited number of fonts in text editing. To find out
how many nozzles your printer has, press the key (available after highlighting the Adv.
options field) in the control program window. On viewing the printer configuration in the
Parameters 1 tab sheet, the program displays the setting of the Number of nozzles parameter. At
the same time, the program displays a broken line in the text edit line. The broken line indicates the
text height, Hmax (see Fig. 3.3.5.1). This facilitates the adjustments of fonts to the printing capabilities
of your printer.
Fig. 3.3.9.1.
! NOTE: If you send to the printer and then print a text whose size (in dots) is greater than the value
of the Number of nozzles parameter received from the printer, then the text will be
truncated at the Hmax level.
32 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Text Height
The height of prints can only be changed by turning the printer around its axis which is perpendicular
to a labelled object. When the printer is turned, the distance between vertical droplets reduces and
thereby the overall height of vertical rows gets smaller.
maximum height (before the printer is turned)
turning the print head
height after the turning
Fig. 3.3.9.2
The machine automatically re-calculates and adjusts time for jetting ink droplets in order to ensure
that rows are printed vertically and the proportion of width to height is maintained for every character
within the text. Therefore the range of turning angles is limited. A different text height is assigned to
every turning angle. The height is given in millimetres and is determined by the print parameter Text
height. The text height relates to the entire text, no matter how the text has been created in the text
processor or what its contents are. The Text height parameter is available in the Parameters 1 tab
sheet after the Adv. options box has been ticked.
Fig. 3.3.9.3.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 33
! NOTE:
• If the print height is different from the maximum, the following three parameters are closely
interrelated: the turning angle and the print parameters Text width and Conv speed. Any
change to each of them causes rows of text to look slanted left or right. In order to ensure that
characters are printed in the vertical direction, follow the steps specified below:
− at first adjust the turning angle of the print head so that the real print height (the distance
from the lowest to the highest dots jetted out of the print head) equals the setting of the print
parameter Text height;
− then modify the print parameters Text width and Conv speed in order to „straighten” up
rows of text to be printed.
• In order to check for correct settings of the print parameters use the function Check
parameters – see section 3.3.4 Checking Printer Parameters. If any irregularities occur, an
analysis of the error report (displayed in the Info tab sheet) helps correct the wrong setting of a
given print parameter.
• The print height cannot be adjusted in an infinitely variable way by changing the distance
between the print head and object to be labelled.
• The final precise height of a text to be printed with the print head turned by a certain angle
depends on the following:
− the diameter of nozzles in the print head,
− the type of ink,
− the pressure of ink inside the ink system,
− the setting of the print parameter Dot size,
− absorptive capacity of the surface on which prints are to be made.
Character Resolution
The parameter decides on visibility of characters of the text printed. It defines resolution of the text,
The resolution is given as a number of rows/metre. The visual effect of a change in the parameter
Text width is a change in the width of characters and the length of the entire text.
The settings of the parameter can vary between 5 and 4000 with the increment of 1.
Fig. 3.3.9.4.
! NOTE: Values of the print parameter Text width are limited not only by the range of settings
given above. The current value of the parameter is controlled by the control program and
can be affected by settings of other print parameters. The system is automatically
protected against an excessively high print rate being set. Therefore it may happen that
some settings appear wrong after the correctness of the parameters has been checked –
see section 3.3.4 Checking Printer Parameters.
Intensity of Ink Drops
There is a need for changing the intensity of ink drops during printing. This parameter affects the size
(volume) of ink droplets jetted out of the print head. If the intensity increases, the diameter of ink dots
and the saturation of the colour in the print also increase.
The settings of the Dot size parameter range from 0 to 10 with the interval of 1.
34 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Fig. 3.3.9.5.
NOTE: If the intensity is set to a higher value, ink consumption increases. !

Mode of Timing
Timing determines the moments at which vertical rows of text are printed. Timing can be synchronised
using:
• a shaft-encoder – by setting the Impulse generator parameter to External.
• an internal generator – by setting the Impulse generator parameter to Fixed speed.
Fig. 3.3.9.6.
NOTE: When printing is timed by an internal generator, the print rate is not synchronised with the
printer travel rate.
!
Object Travel Speed

In order to ensure that labels are clearly visible, the frequency of printing vertical rows needs to match
the travel speed at which objects move in front the printer.
This adjustment can be made with the help of the following print parameters:
• Encoder constant – type in the number of pulses per meter (ranging from 1000 to 99999) of the
built-in encoder, if the Impulse generator parameter is set to External.
Fig. 3.3.9.7.
• Conv speed – type in the printer travel rate expressed as a number of metres per minute (the
setting range from 1 to 99999 can be restricted by the program), if the Impulse generator
parameter is set to Fixed speed.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 35
Fig. 3.3.9.8.
! NOTE: Values of the print parameter Conv speed are limited not only by the range of settings
given above. The current value of the parameter is controlled by the control program and
can be affected by settings of the other print parameters. The system is automatically
protected against an excessively high print rate being set. Therefore it may happen that
some settings appear wrong after the correctness of the parameters has been checked –
see section 3.3.4 Checking Printer Parameters.
Changing this parameter has the effect of increasing or decreasing the density of the text printed
while the object moves before the printer at a constant speed. This parameter is closely related to the
Text width parameter.
The parameter is available in the Parameters 1 tab sheet after the Adv. options box has been
ticked.
Inverting and Reversing a Text
Fig. 3.3.9.9.
The directions are defined as the printer "sees" them.
Fig. 3.3.9.10.
Select the Upside down parameter in order to make the print look like it is turned over.
Fig. 3.3.9.11.
Select the Reverse parameter in order to print a text horizontally on an object moving from left to
right. It can be useful if objects need to be labelled from right to left or if prints are made on
transparent planes and the prints need to be clearly visible from the other side.
36 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Move object from right to left
Move from left to right Fig. 3.3.9.12.

The reverse or inverse printing options can also be used to make prints on transparent surfaces and
the prints need to be legible from the other side (mirror images in the vertical or horizontal directions).
Select the Upside down and Reverse parameters in order to make proper prints when objects to be
labelled are positioned upside down.
Move object from right to left
View after turning object Fig. 3.3.9.13.
Repeating a Text (Repetition)

The parameter determines how many times a text print is to be repeated, after activating the photo-
detector in the place where printing should start. You can print a text repeatedly on one object - this is
a so called text repetition. For long objects (such as pipes, hoses, cables, strips) you can set the
repeated printing parameter to Continuous. The interval between texts is set with the Rep. distance
parameter - see further below.
Fig. 3.3.9.14.
Print Delay
The Print delay parameter defines the distance between the point at which the photo-detector status
changed and the point at which printing should start. The distance is given as a number of empty rows
to be timed after printing has been released until real printing starts. With it you can adjust the position
of a print in relation to a reference point, for example the edge of an object.
The settings of the Print delay parameter range from 0 to 9999 with the increment of 1.
Fig. 3.3.9.15.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 37
Distance between Texts

The Rep. distance parameter defines the distance between the beginnings of the texts that are
printed repeatedly (Text repetitions>1). The distance is specified as a number of vertical rows (timed
by a timing system).
Fig. 3.3.9.16.
Example of printing for Text repetitions=3

printing released with the release button
direction of motion of object before printer
0, ...5,7, ... 14, ... 34 rows
Print delay Rep. distance Rep. distance Fig. 3.3.9.17.
! NOTE: If the distance set with the Rep. distance parameter is smaller than the text length (given as
a number of rows), then the texts will be printed one after another.
Row Repetition
The parameter defines how many times printing of each vertical row should be repeated. It applies to
the entire text, no matter how the text file has been created in the text editor or what its contents are.
It is used for intensifying the prints on porous surfaces, which soak up ink heavily, on which printed
characters are poorly visible due to surface granulation, if the characters are built of ink dots of the
same sizes).
Fig. 3.3.9.18.
38 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Buffering Texts while Printing

Text buffering means that the next texts are prepared for printing in the printer memory after printing
has begun until the printer memory is filled. While printing, ”written” texts are immediately
supplemented in the memory by the next ones. This procedure can be a disturbance in cases where
printing is done at low speed or with a large time gap between texts containing time-type variable
fields. Because buffering causes several texts, with the same time value, to be opened in the memory.
Text buffering is disabled, as standard. To enable it, uncheck the No buffering filed in the
Parameters 3 tab sheet of the control program. The parameter is available after the Adv. options
field has been ticked.
Fig. 3.3.9.19.
Refreshing Variable Fields for Repetitions

A standard printer does not refresh variable fields if a print is to be repeated a number of times (Text
repetitions>1). This means that the contents of the variable fields are not updated each time the print
is made in the repetition mode. The fields are refreshed only after the photo-detector has been
activated.
This may not be convenient in certain situations, for example:
• when a text contains a counter-type variable field, as the same setting of the counter is added to
every print;
For the incremental counter comprising 4 digits set the Text repetitions parameter to 3.
a) If the Refresh var.fields parameter is set to OFF, the following prints can be produced:
Successive activation The following counter
of photo-detector contents are printed:
1 0000 0000 0000
2 0001 0001 0001
3 0002 0002 0002
--- --- --- ---
999 0999 0999 0999
b) If the Refresh var.fields parameter is set to ON, the following prints can be produced:
Successive activation The following counter
of photo-detector contents are printed:
1 0000 0001 0002
2 0003 0004 0005
3 0006 0007 0008
4 0009 0010 0011
--- --- --- ---
333 0996 0997 0998
334 0999 1000 1001
• when texts are printed at a low speed or intervals between successive texts containing a time-
type variable field are significant. If no refresh option is set, the same time is added to every print.
To always print the actual value of the variable fields, you can prevent them from refreshing during
repetition by marking the Refresh var.fields field with the mouse in the Parameters 3 tab sheet of
the control program. The field is available only when the setting of the Text repetitions parameter to
a value greater than 1 is made in advance.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 39
Fig. 3.3.9.20.
3.3.10. Other Printer Parameters
Auto Start
The Auto start parameter enables the printer to resume printing automatically after an unexpected
interruption, for example due to a power failure. After the operating conditions have been restored, the
printer switches on automatically and starts printing the texts that it was printing when its operation
was disrupted. The text is printed from the beginning irrespective of where the previous printing was
interrupted. An ink bottle with a transponder connected to the ink system is the prerequisite for
resumed operation. In order to activate the parameter, tick it in the Parameters 3 tab sheet.
Fig. 3.3.10.1.
Operation of Photo-detector
Printing can be triggered by blocking or unblocking the photo-detector (except when iterative printing
is set to Continuous). When the photo-detector is shaded, printing is released, as standard. The
Inverse fotocell signal parameter can be used to trigger the photo-detector release mode to
exposed.
The parameter is available in the Advance tab sheet after the Adv. options box has been ticked.
Fig. 3.3.10.2.
40 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Triggering (Initiating) Printing

Triggering (initiating) of printing, depending on the state of the photo-detector, can take place in three
ways: through Edge triggering, Level triggering 1 and Level triggering 2. The Triggering
parameter can be used when the setting of the Text repetitions parameter ranges from 1 to 20. If
Text repetitions=Continuous, the printer starts printing after the PRINT ON/OFF button has been
pressed and continues printing uninterruptedly without checking photo-detector signals.
The below description refers to the configuration of print parameters where text buffering is disabled
(the No buffering field in the Parameters 3 tab sheet of the control program is ticked).
A) If the Edge triggering parameter is selected, then printing starts after the exposed/ shaded
pulse edge (or shaded/exposed pulse edge, depending to the photo-detector operation mode
described on page 40) has been detected.
The printer checks the photo-detector signal after the last print has been made in the iterative
printing mode (Text repetitions=2,…,20). If a pulse edge is detected, it repeats printing.
Example for Text repetitions=2
Fig. 3.3.10.3.
Fig. 3.3.10.4.
B) If the Level triggering 1 parameter is selected, then printing starts after the appropriate photo-
detector signal level is detected (that means, the photo-detector is shaded or exposed). The
printer checks the photo-detector signal after the last print has been made in the iterative printing
mode. If the signal level is the same, the printer repeats printing. The level may change during
printing but this does not affect printing – text is printed the set number of times.
Fig. 3.3.10.5.
Fig. 3.3.10.6.
C) If the Level triggering 2 parameter is selected, then printing starts after the appropriate photo-
detector signal level is detected. The printer checks the photo-detector signal constantly. If the
level has not changed, it prints successive texts. If it has, the printer stops printing. When the
signal is restored, the printer resumes printing from the place where the printing was interrupted.
Fig. 3.3.10.7.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 41
Fig. 3.3.10.8.
Stopping Printing
The Stop printing method parameter defines how the printer should terminate its printing job after
the PRINT ON/OFF button has been pressed. Two ways are available:
• Complete & stop – the printer brings the printing job in progress to completion (it finishes printing
of the entire text, while the PRINT lamp flashes), and then stops,
• Immediate stop – the printer stops immediately after the PRINT ON/OFF button has been
pressed (the text is not printed to the end).
Fig. 3.3.10.9.
Changing Ink Colour

The Change ink color option protects the printer against the effects that may occur if a wrong colour
ink bottle is connected to the system. The system does not accept the bottle if the ink colour differs
from the previous one and the option is not selected. Press the Change-ink-colour button before
placing a bottle of ink that differs in colour from the previous one into the ink system carrier. The
parameter is available in the Parameters 3 tab sheet after the Adv. options box has been ticked.
Fig. 3.3.10.10.
42 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Ink Pressure
The Pressure [Bar] parameter can adjust the force of the dots jetted onto the assigned surface. For
smooth, non-absorptive surfaces, a lower pressure value is recommended, while for porous
absorptive surfaces, a higher one.
NOTE: When pressure is set too low, the ink may cool in the print head. If the pressure is set too
high irregular ink blotting (satelites) may occur around the label.
!
The Pressure [Bar] parameter accepts a value from 0.2 to 0.5 with the increment of 0.1.
This parameter is available in the Parameters 3 box after marking the Adv. options.
Fig. 3.3.10.11.
3.3.11. Using a Number of Texts

You can store up to 30 projects (texts and parameters) in the printer memory. Each project can
contain any of the text elements described previously (such as variable fields, various fonts, etc.).
Creating a Text Library in the Printer

1. In the Project library window, type in the name of a first text and confirm the name with the
V key.
Ö Fig. 3.3.11.1.
2. In the text edit line create a complete text and set print parameters for the text.
Fig. 3.3.11.2.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 43
3. When the printer is on, click the key of the printer control program in order to send
the text file to the printer, and then click the key in order to save the text file in the
non-volatile memory of the printer.
4. Repeat steps from 1 to 3 in order to program other texts.
You can save a list of text file projects with the command Copy list to editor which is available on
pressing the right mouse button above the text library window.
Quick Saving/Retrieving Text Files to/from the Text Library

In order to save the entire text library to the printer use the command Send and save text library.
Fig. 3.3.11.3.
Similarly you can retrieve the text library from the printer using the command Retrieve text library.
! NOTE: The command Send and save text library erases all text files contained in the non-
volatile memory of the printer.
Printing Text Files from the Library
You can choose (switch) texts stored in the library by pressing the or key. You may switch a
text regardless of whether the printer is printing (the PRINT indicator is lit) or not.
1. Start printing by pressing the PRINT ON/OFF button.
2. Print a text.
3. Switch the printer to print another text by pressing the or key.

4. Print the successive text.
! NOTE: In order to ensure that the printer skips over text files during the text switching operation
(to be performed with the or key) delete the text name in the library and save
such an empty text name in the printer.
Saving the Project Library on a Computer Disc

The project (text and print parameter) library can be saved on a computer disc with the command
Save project library from the File menu.
44 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
Fig. 3.3.11.4.
Similarly you can open the project library on your computer with the command Open project library.
Fig. 3.3.11.5.
You can quick-load the project library from the computer disc to your printer with two successive
commands Open project library and Send and save text library.
3.4. Operating the Printer with T200 Terminal
The T200 terminal is a stationary device intended to control the EBS-230 printer. It allows for
replacing a PC computer to serve the printer in places where the use of a PC is impossible or difficult.
The terminal allows you to change device parameters, edit texts, send them to the printer as well as
initiate and halt printing. Thanks to the application of a touch panel the device can be easily and
simply operated, without the use of keys, based on an intuitive graphic interface.
The operation of the printer with the T200 terminal is described in the document entitled T200
TERMINAL User's manual.
3.5. Replacing a Bottle of Ink
3.5.1. General Information

Every bottle of ink is equipped with a transponder (an electronic circuit storing some information which
can be read in a wireless way and with no additional power supply). With the information stored in the
transponder every bottle is uniquely identified among all other bottles. An Ink Monitoring System (IMS
in short) built into the printer is designed for reading and validating the transponders. There is an
antenna connected to the IMS module within the EBS-230 series printing system. It controls the
transponder. The location of the IMS antenna is shown in the following figure.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 45
ink bottle carrier
bottle of ink
Ink Monitoring System

with an antenna
Fig. 3.5.1.1.
The Ink Monitoring System is designed for the following:

1) controlling the validity of ink in the ink system. It is intended to prevent using mistakenly ink that is
incompatible with the ink originally used in the ink system of the printer. The type of consumable
in the bottle and the ink validity period are controlled. This is especially important for the Clients
who use a number of EBS printers with various ink types.
2) improved distribution and control of ink through the application of electronic coding and the
validation of information stored in the transponder.
! NOTES:
• Do not replenish an empty bottle with ink, as the IMS module will recognize the bottle consumed
soon anyway. There is a limit of ink droplets to be produced with every new bottle of ink. When
the limit is exceeded, the bottle is recognized empty even if it is not. All ink droplets are counted
and the result is used to estimate the ink consumption. If the above mentioned limit is
exceeded, the printer shows symptoms of the lack of ink in the bottle and awaits the
replacement of the bottle with a new one. If the printer fails to detect a new bottle of ink, no
printing can be initiated with the PRINT ON/OFF button, and if the printer is in the print state,
the current printing is also disabled after a while. During the normal operation of the printer,
the bottle is always emptied before the limit is exceeded.
• Do not remove the bottle while validation is in progress (for about 10 seconds).
• Every bottle can only be used in the printer, in which it has been successfully validated by IMS.
The bottle validated in a printer must not be moved to another printer and the contents of the
bottle must not be added to other bottles. The validated bottle should remain in the printer until
its contents are consumed.
• In order to ensure that the validation is successful, the current date needs to be set in the printer
properly. No printing is possible after the date has been set back.
• When the date is set back, all bottles are ignored! No other bottle can be validated or printing
resumed until the proper date has been set in the printer.
• Do not set the date ahead because when you decide to set the proper date, the operation will
be recognized as setting back with all the consequences described above.
46 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
3.5.2. Installing a New Bottle of Ink (or Replacing the Empty One)
NOTE:
• Please note that only the recommended type of ink should be used. Any supply of
!
improper ink must be avoided or otherwise the head might get damaged. In consequence
a lot of problems may arise, from significant deterioration of the quality of printing to a
malfunction of the ink system and the print head and the need for a major repair of the
printer.
• Various types of ink must not be mixed or ink whose usability period has been exceed
must not be added.
In order to install or replace a bottle of ink, follow the below specified steps:
a). Switch the printer off.
b). Open the drain valve which is next to the ink bottle cap. Therefore the ink pressure drops to zero.
Then close the drain valve.
c). Unscrew the cap on the used bottle by turning its lower part while holding the upper part with
plug, connected to polyethylene tubes, in place. Check that the lower end of the tube is connected
to the ink filter. If it is dirty it needs to be rinsed with wash-up.
pressure tube to feed ink from a bottle to the printer
air vent valve

tube suppling
pressure to ink bottle
cap and a tube tipped
with an ink filter
Fig. 3.5.2.1.
d). Unscrew the cap off a new bottle.
e). Place the new bottle of ink in the carrier.
f). Insert the filter-tipped tube into the bottle and screw on the plug.
g). Switch the printer on. The new bottle is validated after the transponder has been verified (within
about 10 seconds).
The states of indication lamps during the validation of a new bottle are as follow:
• The sensing and verification of a transponder are indicated with the green lamp POWER flickering
uniformly (at 0.5 Hz) for about 10 seconds.
• The validation of the bottle is indicated with the green lamps POWER and PRINT flickering
quickly in turns for about 1 second and then only by the lamp POWER which should emit
continuous light.
• If validation of a bottle is unsuccessful, the red
lamp ERROR flickers. On clicking the

button in the control program window, the user can
view the Info tab sheet and identify the cause of
the error, see Fig. 3.5.2.2..
Fig. 3.5.2.2.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 47
4. Servicing the Printer
4.1. Routine Maintenance
Before starting maintenance, get acquainted with section 2.1 Safety and Installation Requirements.
User-performed maintenance consists in, amongst other things, periodic inspections and service
operations to keep the machine in good working order. Some operations need to be performed daily
while others every specified period of time.
Daily maintenance:
´ Check the level of ink in the bottle. If the bottle is empty, replace it - see section 3.5.2 Installing a
New Bottle of Ink (or Replacing the Empty One).
´ It is recommended that each time the printer is switched off, the front part of the print head,
especially the nozzles and photo-detector are washed in order to remove any remaining ink. Use
a sprayer with cleaning fluid (wash-up).
Routine maintenance:
´ Every 1000 hours of operation – check that the ink filter on the bottle is clean.
´ Every 12 months of operation – check the transmissibility of the ink filter on the bottle and the
printer's air filter.
´ If the printer is not to be used for a longer time (over 2 weeks), secure the printer as described in
section 5.1 Storing the Printer.
NOTE!
) The use of sharp tools or improper fluid (wash-up) to clean and wash the print head
! may result in damage which is not covered by the warranty!
) While washing the panel and connections with wash-up, cover the air inlet (AIR
IN). The failure to make sure that the air inlet is covered may result in damage to
electronic circuitry inside the print head.
) Ink and cleaning fluid (wash-up) can only be used, if supplied by the printer
Manufacturer!
) Different ink types must not be mixed!
!
IF THE ABOVE REQUIREMENTS ARE NOT MET, THE MANUFACTURER SHALL BE
RELEASED FROM ITS WARRANTY OBLIGATIONS.
48 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
4.1.1. Changing the ink filter in the bottle

The following steps describe how to replace the filter:
a). Stop printing with the PRINT ON/OFF key and switch off the printer with the
R230 distributor power switch.
b). Switch off the pressure by opening the air drain valve on the side of the ink bottle
cap. Close the valve when the pressure drops to zero.
c). Remove the cap from the bottle by turning its lower part and keeping in place the
upper part with ferrules that the polyethylene tubes are connected to.
d). Remove the cap from the bottle by removing the suction pipe with filter. When you
remove the filter from the bottle make sure it is not shaken, which could cause the
impurities collected on the filter to drop down.
e). Securing the filter with a 14 mm flat wrench, unscrew the security screw cap using
an 11 mm flat wrench.
f). Slide down the filter basket from the suction pipe. The security bush and the screw
cap remain on the suction pipe.
g). Replace the old filter with the new one in such a way that the end of the suction pipe
is positioned at the bottom of the filter basket, and then secure it with the screw cap.
h). Place the suction pipe with the filter in the bottle and tighten the cap.
Switch on the printer with the R230 destributor power switch and start printing again
with the PRINT ON/OFF key.
4.1.2. Replacing the air filter in the printer

To replace the air filter proceed as follows:
a). Remove the printer cover according to the steps described in 4.3.9 Removing the Housing
(Cover) from the Printer on page 57.
b). Remove the filter from the clamp (see Fig. 4.1.2.1),
c). Replace the old filter with a new one so that it is protected against sliding off by the clamp,
d). Put back the printer cover performing the stages of the procedure described in 4.3.9 in reverse
order.
air filter
air filter clamp Fig. 4.1.2.1.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 49
4.2. Removing Air from the Ink System
Transport, manipulations to the ink system or other reasons may result in accumulation of air within
the print head. In consequence, ink droplets are not jetted from some or all nozzles.
In order to remove air from the print head, follow the instructions below:
a). Turn the nozzle outlets towards a waste-ink dish (that is used to wash the printer, for example).
b). Press and hold down the PRINT ON/OFF button on the operation panel on the back wall of the
printer housing. This opens all electromagnets within the head to pressure-release air bubbles
and ink.
c). Continue the air removal process until a regular and continuous ink jet starts flowing out of each
nozzle.
d). Release the PRINT ON/OFF button.
! NOTE: The frequent and lengthy use of the rinse function increases ink consumption.
4.3. When Problems Arise while Operating or Servicing the Printer
4.3.1. No labels are printed after the print command has been
accepted
PROBLEM REMEDY
No text is printed after the • Check whether components of the ink system are properly
printer has been switched connected and make sure that there is some ink in the bottle.
on and the printing started • Check for proper settings of the print parameters. If Impulse
with the PRINT ON/OFF generator=External, check whether the shaft-encoder axle
button (the diode PRINT rotates. If Text repetitions is not set to Continuous, check
has started emitting green whether the photo-detector detects moving objects.
light). • Check for proper settings of other parameters.
4.3.2. Choked nozzles in the print head
! NOTE: The following procedure should be performed by trained staff authorized to service EBS
printers.
50 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
PROBLEM REMEDY
A nozzle is choked. An 1
2
3
attempt to remove 4
obstacles from it by rinsing

5
6
Nozzle No.6
does not help. (The rinsing
7
8
is clogged
9
is started by pressing and 10
11
holding down the 12
Fig. 4.3.2.1.
PRINT ON/OFF button on
the back wall of the printer Follow the instructions below:
housing). • Open the drain valve which is next to the ink bottle cap.
Therefore the ink pressure drops to zero. Then close the drain
valve to protect ink solvent from evaporating.
• Remove the distance holder for packages from the front part of
the printer.
• Unscrew four screws that fix the nozzle plate and remove the
plate carefully.
plate with nozzles
fixing screws
Fig. 4.3.2.2.
• Wash the shock absorbers found beneath the plate (only in 16-
nozzle heads).
• If possible, wash the plate and the nozzles with wash-up in an
ultrasonic bath.
• If the ultrasonic bath cannot be applied, leave the plate with the
nozzles in a wash-up bath for about 10 minutes.
• Dry the plate with compressed air.
• Clear the choked nozzles with tungsten wire carefully from the
back to the front (Use the tungsten wire supplied by the
Manufacturer only !!!).
• Moisten the plate with wash-up on installing a gasket.
• Fasten the nozzle plate with screws taking care not to damage
rubber gaskets or shutters.
• Install the distance holder.
• Switch the printer on and remove air from the ink system - see
para 4.2 Removing Air from the Ink System.
NOTE:
The above operations need to be performed under strictly clean
! conditions.
Do not leave any foreign objects in the chamber behind the
plate.
If the plate is fastened improperly, the nozzles may get
damaged (ruby tips may break).
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 51
4.3.3. Some dots are much smaller than others or missing on the print
PROBLEM REMEDY
All dots jetted out of a
particular nozzle (a
horizontal line) are much
smaller than others or are
missing.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Nozzle No.6
7
8
does not print
9
10
11
12
Fig. 4.3.3.1
Such a problem occurs when the solenoid valve corresponding to the
nozzle is out of order. Try to adjust the electromagnet in the valve
following the procedure below.
Adjusting Valve Electromagnets in the Print Head
! NOTE: The following procedure should be performed by trained staff authorized to service EBS
printers.
1. Remove the printer housing – see section 4.3.9 Removing the Housing (Cover) from the
Printer.
2. Hold up the uncovered printer (a special service holder available from the Manufacturer can be
used). Place adsorbent cloth and a dish for waste ink behind the printer.
3. Connect the printer to the mains while pressing the PRINT ON/OFF button at the same time and
hold the button down until three diodes: POWER, ERROR, PRINT start emitting light
simultaneously. The printer switches to the service mode. In this mode valves can be adjusted.
hold down the button while

switching the printer on
the states of LEDs during „the entering” of the

service procedure for valve adjustment
POWER ERROR PRINT

before switching the printer on
soon after switching it on
after about 3 seconds
after releasing the PRINT ON/OFF

button - the lamps flicker uniformly and
the first test text is printed
Fig. 4.3.3.2. Initiating a service procedure for adjusting printer valves.
52 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
4. The printer prints various combinations in a loop-like sequence; in order to move from one
combination to the other press the PRINT ON/OFF button. The following sequence is used:
a). the first test text, whose contents are shown below:
time-type special register incremental counter-type special register Fig. 4.3.3.3.
The following settings are used: Dot size=1, Text width=500, Conv speed=10,
b). the second test text of the contents as above and the parameter Dot size set to 0,
c). printing with no nozzle – this is indicated by the quick flickering of all lamps at the same time,
d). successive prints made with one nozzle only, from the 1st to the last one; and the parameter
Dot size set to 7; the following nozzle is chosen by pressing the PRINT ON/OFF button,
e). a print made with all nozzles at the same time and the parameter Dot size set to 7,
f). return back to combination a) in order to repeat the entire sequence.
5. Set the option of printing only with the nozzle
whose valve needs adjusting (the nozzle
regulation number is on the LED indicator on
the print head panel).
TORX tip
6. Fit a TORX-tipped screwdriver number T6 into
the adjusting screw of the nozzle that has
previously been chosen in the sequence of
various combinations of prints. Turn the screw
into its place until ink droplets start flowing out
of the nozzle. Electromagnet numbers are
engraved on their plastic bodies - see Fig.
4.3.3.4.
7. While turning the screwdriver and moving a
sheet of paper perpendicularly to the axis of valve adjustment screws
the nozzle at a distance of 10 mm, adjust the
number of the valve under
size of dots as required. The dot must be control is displayed here
round in shape with no satellites or splashes
around. Fig. 4.3.3.4
8. Set the printing with another nozzle by
pressing the PRINT ON/OFF button on the
printer panel.
9. Adjust other nozzles by following steps from 5 to 8 to get dots of one size for all nozzles.
10. On adjusting the last nozzle, turn them all on at the same time and while turning the adjusting
screws of the nozzles clockwise or counter-clockwise (by the maximum of ¼ of the rotation)
shape all dots so that they are all of a similar size.
11. Reduce the intensity of ink droplets to the value of 0 (Dot size=0) and re-adjust the screws by
following steps from 5 to 10.
12. Switch the printer off and on in order to exit the service mode and the valve adjustment
procedure.
13. Check what the deflection of ink jets from the axis of the nozzle is. To this end, observe ink jets on
a light background with the rinsing operation being performed in the printer at the same time (hold
down the PRINT ON/OFF button). At the distance of 60÷80 mm from the front of the print head
and at the rated ink pressure, the ink jets must be neither deflected from the axis by more than 2
mm on the horizontal and vertical planes nor crossed. If this requirement is not met, clean the
nozzles – see section 4.3.2 Choked nozzles in the print head. If this does not help, replace the
nozzle plate and follow the adjustment procedure from step 5 to 12. Should no positive results be
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 53
obtained after the replacement, check for proper installation of flexible connectors and
electromagnet units or get the printer repaired.
14. After the solenoid valves have been adjusted, re-install the housing and place the printer in the
holder in its working position.
Figures below show the prints of a text produced after electromagnets have been adjusted properly
and when the valve electromagnet of nozzle No. 6 is out of order. The scope of the disorder is
described with the use of the clock-face notion, where one full rotation is 60 minutes.
Electromagnets are adjusted properly
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 Adjusting screw is turned 10 minutes anticlockwise
8
9
10
11
12
Adjusting screw is turned 15 minutes anticlockwise
Adjusting screw is turned 15 minutes clockwise
Adjusting screw is turned 20 minutes clockwise
4.3.4. Prints are distorted
PROBLEM REMEDY
The prints are distorted. It may happen that when a moving object hits the printer, the printer
There are irregular ink may get repositioned. An example of a print made with the
splashes or ink dots repositioned printer is shown below:
overlap each other as
shown in the example on
the right.
Fig. 4.3.4.1
Such prints are made when the distance between the front of the
printer and the object is too big. Move the printer to the object plane
at the distance of less than 15 mm. If this is impossible, adjust
electromagnets within the print head to print over a greater distance
– see Adjusting Valve Electromagnets in the Print Head above.
Figures below show the print of a text produced at different distances
between the front of the printer and the object.
54 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
PROBLEM REMEDY
The distance between the printer and the object is 6 mm,
The distance between the printer and the object is 20 mm.
4.3.5. Prints look as if printed in bold type and blur
PROBLEM REMEDY
The print is saturated with

ink heavily, droplets of ink
mix with each other and the
entire label blurs on the
object.
Fig. 4.3.5.1
Such a print occurs when the value of the Dot size parameter is too
high. Reduce the parameter setting by moving the slider leftwards.
Fig. 4.3.5.2
Figures below show the print of a text for the rated pressure of ink
and different settings of the print parameter Dot size.
Dot size=0
Dot size=1
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 55
Dot size=2
Dot size=7
4.3.6. Prints are slanted
PROBLEM REMEDY
The prints are slanted and

turned left or right.
Fig. 4.3.6.1
Such a print occurs when the printer is turned around it own axis.
Re-position the printer by turning it in the printer holder in such a way
that all nozzles are located along the vertical line.
4.3.7. Lower (upper) parts of prints are distorted
PROBLEM REMEDY
The lower (upper) parts of
prints are distorted.
Irregular splashes of ink
occur.
Fig. 4.3.7.1
Such a print occurs when the front part of the printer is tilted down
(up) and therefore the outlets of lower (upper) nozzles are more
distant from the object than the other ones.
A
The printer is tilted

B > A or A > B OBJECT LABELED
Fig. 4.3.7.2
Level the printer by adjusting the printer holder.
56 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
4.3.8. Prints are crooked, wavy and jagged
PROBLEM REMEDY
The prints are crooked, ´ The printer holder is fixed to the base that is subject to strong
wavy and jagged. vibration and shocks. The printer shakes during the printing. Fix
the printer holder to a stable structure that is not subject to
vibration or shocks.
´ Objects moving on the conveyor are subject to strong vibration
or shocks. Adjust the movement of objects in front of the printer
so that they do not vibrate or are not subject to shocks while
being labelled.
Fig. 4.3.8.1.
4.3.9. Removing the Housing (Cover) from the Printer

In order to remove the cover from the printer, follow the below specified steps:
a). Stop printing with the PRINT ON/OFF key and switch off the printer with the R230 distributor
power switch.
b). Switch the printer off.
c). Remove the printer from the printer holder and uninstall the distance holder.
d). Unscrew two nuts off the bolts at the back of the printer and remove the washers.
e). Holding the printer cover, press the front part of the printer with your thumb into the inside, until
the cover starts slipping off freely.
f). Slip the cover off the printer so that the guide bars slip out of the tubes.
distance holder retaining nuts
printer without
the cover
press the front

of the head here
Fig. 4.3.9.1
4.4. How to Contact your Service Representative
The above paragraphs provide instructions on how to remove some faults of the printer. The faults
can be corrected by the user without the need to call a service representative. In certain
circumstances, however, an intervention by a service representative is not only desirable but
necessary. Therefore before you call your service representative, collect some information to help the
service staff to pre-locate the fault. With this information your service representative can agree upon
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 57
whether the printer has been operated improperly or some other fault has occurred. It also enables
the service staff to prepare the visit to make this as efficient as possible.
When reporting a printer failure, be ready to give the following information:
1. The name and type of the printer.
2. The type of fault and after-effects.
3. The printer status at the time of failure:
• the state of indication lamps displayed on the printer panel,
• current settings of print parameters of the text printed – write down the parameters and the
printer configuration to a file following the procedure described in section 4.4.1 Generating a
Service Report and transfer the file (a as hardcopy or an electronic mail) to the service
representative,
• if additional, non-standard options are installed, specify the names of the options,
• the version numbers of the printer hardware and control program – see the note below and
section 3.3.9 Print Parameters,
• ink data and printer parameters available from the Ink Monitoring System (IMS) – see the
note below.
4. What service operations were being performed when the failure occurred.
5. The type print head (7 or 16 nozzles, the inner diameter of the nozzles).
The above information should be reported by telephone, fax or e-mail to your service
representative.
! NOTE:
• Data on the printer that are shown in some tab sheets of the control program are not available
until the read-parameter function has been executed successfully with the or
button.
• Requests for help should only be addressed an authorized service representative who works
closely with the local distributor most frequently. Only authorized service staff are able to offer
you professional and prompt assistance whenever you find the operation of the printer
unsatisfactory.
4.4.1. Generating a Service Report

The EBS-230 printer is a machine where many different parameters can be set and the process
of printing can be configured in many ways in order to ensure the customer’s requirements are
satisfied. Should any malfunction or irregularities occur in the printer operation, the user is advised to
contact an authorized service representative. The properly prepared set of data on the irregularity or
malfunction and conditions in which they occurred can be very helpful for the service staff in
facilitating fault location and removal. The data reported enable the service person to restore the print
parameters the user used soon before the failure. The data can be stored on the disk of the computer
in a file under any name.
In order to create a service-report file follow the below specified steps:
1. Attach the computer to the printer and start running the EBS-230 control program.
2. View the printer parameters by clicking the button in the control program window.
3. In the control program menu Tools choose the command Create service report.
4. Type in the name of a parameter file in the newly displayed window and select the directory
where the service-report file is to be saved. Click the Save icon.
58 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
5. Storage and Transportation
5.1. Storing the Printer
Allowable climatic and mechanical exposure:

• Storage temperature from -5 °C to +50 °C,
• Relative humidity of up to 95% without condensation,
• Shocks: the maximum of 1g for the maximum of 2 ms.
1. Storing data in the printer memory
The time, the date and settings of non-volatile special registers, such as counters and some other
parameters, are stored in a separate printer memory. The memory is backed with a battery after
the power pack has been switched off. The capacity of the battery is sufficient to store the
contents of the memory safely for about 1 month. After that time the Manufacturer cannot
guarantee that the memory contents are maintained as the battery capacities vary according to
the unit. If the printer is not to be used for more than 1 month, switch on the printer with the
network switch on the distributor housing for 5 hours to recharge the battery. To preserve the
operating parameters of the device it is necessary to change the battery every 4 years.
2. Protecting the ink system of the printer
The ink parts of the printer are filled with ink. If the printer is not protected properly and needs to
be stored for a longer time, ink may dry out and choke the nozzles and valves.
If the printer is not to be used for a period of over 3 weeks protect it in the following way:
a). In place of the ink bottle place a bottle of wash-up (matching to the ink) in a similar manner to
as when changing the ink bottle – see chapter Installing a New Bottle of Ink (or Replacing
the Empty One). The wash-up bottle does not require validation by the printer.
b). Turn the outlets of the nozzles towards a waste-ink dish.
c). Start rinsing the ink system of the printer by pressing and holding down the PRINT ON/OFF
button on the back wall of the printer housing. Continue the rinsing until ink is completely
replaced with wash-up. Do not remove the wash-up from the print head and the tubes.
d). Switch the printer off.
e). Open the drain valve which is next to the ink (wash-up) bottle cap. Therefore the ink (wash-
up) pressure drops to zero.
f). Unscrew the tube supplying ink (wash-up) from the ink intake valve, together with the non-
return valve which prevents ink (wash-up) from pouring out of the tube.
g). Wash with wash-up the front part of the print head (the plate and the nozzles) and the seat of
non-return valve within the connector.
3. Additional protection
The printer to be stored needs to be detached from the mains by removing the distributor outlet
plug. Protect the printer against dust, exposure to aggressive vapours and gases and weather
conditions. It is advisable to put the printer into a polyethylene bag, remove air from the bag and
close the bag tight. Protect the printer against mechanical damage.
NOTE: The printer must not be stored empty (dry). The ink system must be filled with wash-
up for storage. The wash-up contains no water and prevents steam condensation,
!
thus protecting printer components from corroding and also the heads of
electromagnetic valves from deforming. Only wash-up recommended by the
Manufacturer and compatible with the type of ink should be used.
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 59
5.2. Transporting the Printer
The printing system should be transported in its regular working position. This applies in particular to
the printer itself and the ink system. Avoid any excessive shocks or vibration.
If there is a threat that the entire printer may get tilted or be exposed to excessive shocks or vibration
during the transportation, secure the unit in the following way:
1. Detach and remove the printer from its workplace.
2. Remove the bottle of ink and plug it with an original cap to protect the ink from pouring out.
3. Uninstall the printer, dismantle the ink system, distributor and its connection cables.
4. Protect the printer as for storage – see section 5.1 Storing the Printer.
5. Wrap parts of the printing system (the printer, ink system carrier, bottle carrier and printer fixtures
and holders, distributor) with corrugated board or bubble foil.
6. Wind up connecting cables and polyethylene tubes to make a reel of the diameter of about 20 cm
and secure with packing tape.
7. Place all secured parts in a cardboard box (the original transportation packing is recommended)
and protect them against relocating inside the box. Close the box and protect it from getting open
accidentally. Other packing can also be used to protect all parts against mechanical damage.
Allowable mechanical shocks inside the packing must not exceed the maximum of 1g over the
maximum of 2 ms.
60 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0
6. Technical Specifications
Parameter Value
Number of nozzles 7 or 16
standard: 150µm,
Nozzle diameter
optional: 100 µm, 120µm, 200µm.
No head-turning option available:
11 mm for the 7-nozzle printer,
27 mm for the 16-nozzle printer.
Height of prints
Head-turning option available:
6-11 mm for the 7-nozzle printer,
6-27 mm for the 16-nozzle printer.
Working position of the printer any
Number of vertical rows printed at the
1
same time
Number of texts and set of print
1 to 30 Texts are loaded to the printer via a PC or
parameters stored in the printer memory
T200 terminal.
at a time
1300 (includes controller characters for built-in fonts)
Maximum number of characters in a text Number of characters entered from Windows® fonts is
limited – depending on the type and size of a font.
Ability to edit and print text and graphic symbols with the
Graphics printing (logos, special graphic
application of Windows® fonts (True Type fonts) as well
characters)
as with a bitmap editor, as standard.
National diacritical characters, graphic, warning or
Special characters transport characters (a collection of characters
determined by manufacturer), etc.
Special registers (texts with dynamically date and time in any format, expiry dates, incremental
changing content based on occurrence of a
specific event)
counter, decremental counter,
• with use of a PC
- Minimum Recommended Hardware Requirements:
IBM PC compatible - Pentium 200 or equivalent, 32
MB RAM, min. 50 MB free disc space on HDD,
- Windows® 98SE / ME / NT / 2000 / XP / Vista®
Editing texts and print parameters, compatible operating system for text edit and print
printer control parameter programs,
If Windows NT® is running on your PC, the printer
communicates with the PC exclusively via an RS-232
interface (not via USB).
• with use of T200 terminal (optional).
Internal generator or a so called shaft-encoder (for
Printing timing
variable speed conveyors)
Power supply (power pack integrated with IN: 100-240 V~, 50-60 Hz / 0,66-0,34 A
R230 cable distributor) OUT: 24V , max. 1A
20080512#1.0 _____________________________________________________ 61
Parameter Value
0.58A for the 7-nozzle printer,
Power consumption
0.91A for the 16-nozzle printer.
Compressed air supply not required
Operating pressure from 0.02 MPa to 0.05 MPa (from 0,2 bar to 0,5 bar)
Operating temperature range from +5 °C to +40 °C
Storage temperature range
from -10 °C to +45 °C
(long term)
Up to 95% without steam condensation – for
Humidity temperatures above the dew point (operation in rainfall is
possible provided print surface is dry).
Ink is made on a base of ethanol or water in various
Ink colours available from catalogue (incl. white, yellow, blue,
green, red and black).
1 litre – the use of higher capacity bottles may result in
Ink bottle capacity
microcompressor malfunction
1 litre of ink per >2 000 000 characters (with 7x5 dot
Ink consumption
matrix)
approx. 600 g – printer without mounting and cables,
Weight approx. 1000 g – R230 cable distributor with cables
and printer accessory system.
diameter: 70 mm, length: 250 mm – printer,
Dimensions height: 250 mm, width: 80 mm, depth: 160 mm –
R230 cable distributor housing including cables.
62 ___________________________________________________ 20080512#1.0

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EBS-230

EBS Ink-Jet Systeme GmbH

© 2008 EBS Ink-Jet Systeme GmbH, D-51588 Nümbrecht

1. GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................. 6

Dear Users of EBS Ink-Jet Systems equipment,

Information signs indicating:

1.2. Principle of Operation

Supply of ink to the

1.3. Environmental Protection

1.4. Conformity Marking

2. Installing the Printer

2.1. Safety and Installation Requirements

2.2. Power Supply Requirements

0.58A for 7-nozzle printer,

2.3. Installing the Printer

2.3.1. Standard and Optional Elements of the Printer

• R230 cable distributor ...................................................................................................... 1 unit

Fig. 2.3.1.1. Elements of the EBS-230 Printing System.

2.3.2. Preparatory Steps

4. Fix printer to horizontal or vertical mounting depending on needs.

Fig. 2.3.2.1. Fixing elements of printer to standard mounting

printer with the print head

a tube to pressure-feed ink

bottle plug print head

interface cable to IMS

network power supply cable

Ink Monitoring System (IMS)

Fig. 2.3.3.1. Connecting the EBS-230 printer at its workplace.

Connecting the printer to the ink system

ink input connector

air outlet connector

tube to supply ink from bottle tube to supply compressed

Electrical and Interface Connections

ink inlet connector air compressor output connector

pins to fix PC/TERM

ink monitoring system

power supply cable

2.4. Switching the Printer On/Off

2.5. Printer Communication with Controller – PC or T200

A PC (stationary or portable ) with Windows® 98SE / ME / NT / 2000 / XP / Vista®, or T200

Line Connection to Computer

Fig. 2.5.1. Connecting the computer using cable method.

Line Connection to T200 Terminal (optional)

Fig. 2.5.2. Connecting the T200 terminal using cable method.

3. Operating the Printer

3.1. Operation Panel

LED display showing text LED indicating print-parameter

text number LED indicating

Fig. 3.1.1. Elements of printer panel.

The operation of the PRINT ON/OFF button:

3.2. Quick start: Printing a Ready-to-use Text from the Printer

3.3. Operating the Printer with Control Program

3.3.1. User Interface for Printer Control Program

Transmission and error

Fig. 3.3.1.1. Main window of the control program.

3.3.2. Setting up Initial Connection for Printer Control Program on

3.3.3. Saving Text Files and Parameters in the Printer Memory

3.3.4. Checking Printer Parameters

printer by pressing the key,

3.3.5. Creating and Editing Texts

text edit line

Using and Changing Built-in Fonts of the Printer

Using and Changing Windows® Fonts